Stephen Selam, Lishwailatum, was raised in in the Satus area of Toppenish, Washington and later moved to Harrah. He graduated from the University of Washington, earning a degree in Political Science and American Indian Studies.

Selam began working for the Yakama Nation in 2008 and has dedicated his career to serving Yakama children and families. He started as a teacher at Head Start and spent summers at Camp Chaparral. He later worked in the Alcoholism program before returning to Head Start as an Education Specialist. Selam went on to serve as the Head Start Director for 10 years and briefly served as the Assistant Tribal Administrative Director before being elected to Tribal Council.

Selam is the Chairman of the Loan, Extension, Education and Housing Committee and currently serves on the Health, Employment, Welfare Recreation, Youth Activities (Member) and Legislative (Member); and Veterans (Secretary).

His primary focus is bringing education to the forefront and ensuring that young People have the support and opportunities they need to succeed. Reflecting this commitment, he often says, “The biggest investment is the biggest return in children.”

To contact Councilmember Selam, please feel free to call him at (509) 865-5121 extension 4338 or email him at Stephen_Selam@yakama.com. His secretary is Fayedawn Fiander and she can be reached at (509) 865-5121 extension 4331.

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